How can I become an overseas volunteer?

Becoming an overseas volunteer involves various steps which include:

Method 1 of 3: Picking the Right Program

1. Determine what sort of work you find meaningful. Decide what cause or location you feel passionate about helping. Identify the kind of volunteer work you would like to engage in. You may want to teach, build schools, clinics, or wells, farm, provide social work, help in refugee camps or urban poverty centers, or clean up/repair, especially after a disaster.

2. Consider your skill set, and what kind of work you can help do. Identify what skills you have, and determine how you can use them to help others. For example, if you would like to work as a teacher, you might need to be able to speak the language of the country you are going to or know some basic phrases. If you want to help at a building site, you would help to have some building or carpentry skills.

3. Make a list of locations you would like to visit or help. Choose a place that you are comfortable with, and have an interest in a culture or country. Ensure that you are willing to immerse yourself in order to learn more about it. Also, consider health and safety concerns in the area.

4. Determine how long you are willing to volunteer and how much money you can spend. Different programs need volunteers throughout the year, and the length of volunteering is the most significant determining factor in cost. Programs that are between 1-2 weeks are usually expensive, while anything over 3 months often requires nothing more than transportation costs.

5. Use targeted, specific searches to find programs you like. Search for specific programs online using your skills, desires, and logistics. If you are looking to volunteer without a program, contact organizations such as schools, hospitals, or shelters to ask them if they take volunteers.

6. Verify the full cost of a program before paying. Check for testimonials online and research the organization's work and company history. Ensure that you know the exact benefits your program offers, from paid meals to medical options should you get sick.

7. Talk to someone in the organization who has either done the trip or is currently working. Contact someone on the ground or someone with experience to get the full details on the experience. Investigate before writing a check.

Method 2 of 3: Preparing to Leave

1. Contact your chosen program about flight times. Most programs require that you book flights at specific times so that they can pick you up.

2. Get your passport and visa in order. Ensure that you have a valid passport, and apply for a visa in advance if required.

3. Get any necessary immunizations. Visit a doctor to determine which vaccinations you may need and get them done in advance.

4. Purchase travel insurance. Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies, flight cancellations, or loss of property.

Method 3 of 3: Being an Effective Volunteer

1. Learn about the local culture and customs. Read up on the local culture and customs before leaving, and continue to learn once you arrive.

2. Stay safe. Follow safety guidelines provided by your program and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

3. Be flexible and patient. Volunteering in a foreign country can be challenging, and it's important to be flexible and patient.

4. Respect the local community. Respect the local community, and work with them instead of imposing your own ideas.

5. Make the most of your experience. Make the most of your experience by taking time to explore the local area and interact with the people you are helping.

6. Keep in touch. Keep in touch with your family and friends back home, and share your experiences with them.